Wood vs. Gas – A Modern Houston Fireplace Choice
Here in Houston, where our winters are short and mild with occasional cold snaps, fireplaces are more about comfort and ambiance than a primary heating source. Many Houston area homeowners are rethinking their traditional wood burning fireplaces. They are considering turning to gas fireplaces for the added efficiency and convenience they offer. This is a growing trend as homeowners continue to seek cleaner-burning, low-maintenance fireplace solutions for their homes.
As you consider your upgrade options, it’s important to remember that not all fireplace conversions are alike. Knowing this can help you avoid unnecessary costs or complications along the way.
Understanding Your Conversion Options: Simple vs. Full Replacement
Gas Log Set Installation: A Simple Fix
For most homeowners, installing a gas log set is the simplest upgrade solution. If your existing fireplace already has a gas line—and most Houston homes do—it’s a straightforward process that can be completed in hours instead of days. The process involves installing a set of ceramic logs, fire balls, or fire glass that produce real flames.
This option keeps your original fireplace structure intact with no construction needed. Professional installation by a fireplace professional ensures safety and proper function.
Full Fireplace Replacement: A Bigger Project
Some projects require a homeowner to go big and completely replace their wood burning fireplace. This option involves removing your entire fireplace and reframing the space to accommodate a brand-new gas fireplace unit. This is a major renovation that requires a competent contractor for the structural work. You can count on our expert team at Perfection Supply to provide the new fireplace unit, but we do not perform the construction and frame-out work itself.
This route is more expensive and time-consuming, often lasting several days. It’s best suited for a time when you are planning a major home remodel or are dealing with a severely damaged fireplace structure.
Convenience of Gas for Busy Lifestyles
A gas fireplace is the perfect choice for Houston’s modern, on-the-go families, thanks to the immediate convenience. They provide instant warmth and a cozy ambiance without drawn out prep work. Simply push a button or flip a switch. There’s no need to gather and store wood, struggle to light kindling, or babysit your fire for hours. There is no ash cleanup or smoke seeping into your house to deal with. It’s a stress-free way to enjoy a fire during a cool Houston evening, whether for a few minutes or a few hours.
Improved Heating Efficiency and Comfort
Traditional wood burning fireplaces tend to be less efficient than gas fireplaces. They can pull the warm air from your living space up the chimney, making your other rooms colder. In contrast, a direct vent gas fireplace radiates heat into your home with their unique design. As a result, gas direct vent models minimize heat loss and can be up to 70% energy efficient. Gas log sets placed in a traditional wood burning fireplace are not more efficient than burning real wood, but they do provide more controlled and consistent heat and are easy to operate.
Cleaner and Safer Home Environment
Making the switch and installing a gas fireplace gives you a cleaner-burn and safer fireplace over a wood burning option. Wood fires can release smoke, soot, and creosote that dirty your fireplace and chimney. Gas burns much cleaner, leaving behind no ash and almost no indoor pollution. This means fewer cleanings, better indoor air quality, and no lingering smoky smell.Â
Safety is another key benefit. There are no stray embers or sparks popping out onto your floor because the flames are fully contained. You also don't have to bother with removing ashes. Many gas fireplaces have automatic shut-off features and can be safely left running without constant supervision. Gas fireplaces should still be installed with proper ventilation and carbon monoxide detectors for maximum safety. Â
Making the Switch in Houston: What to Know
Installation Requirements
Fireplace installation is not a DIY job; professional installation is recommended. Since 2023, the City of Houston requires a permit for the installation or modification of a gas fireplace. A city inspector will verify that everything from the gas line to the ventilation is safely installed. A competent contractor will help you navigate these requirements.
Gas Log Set Options (Simple Conversion)
Create a fireplace that is distinctly you with one of these gas log options:
- Traditional ceramic gas logs have the most realistic wood appearance.
- Contemporary fire glass adds a modern touch with colored glass crystals.
- Fire balls or spheres give a geometric modern flair.
Vented gas logs require the chimney damper to be open during use, while vent free sets offer more heat but come with strict sizing rules. Many options include remote controls and thermostats for added convenience.
Full Replacement Considerations
If your existing fireplace is damaged or you’re already planning a renovation, a full replacement may be worth it. Be prepared for a two to five day construction timeline and budget accordingly for both the fireplace unit and the contractor costs. Try to avoid the holiday seasons when contractors are busiest.
Fuel Considerations
Natural gas access is readily available in urban and suburban neighborhoods. This makes converting to a gas fireplace a practical choice. Homes without access to natural gas can use propane, although that’s less common within city limits.
Making the Right Choice for Your Home
When a Gas Log Set Makes Sense:
- Your existing fireplace is in good structural condition.
- A gas line is already in place.
- You want an easy, affordable upgrade.
- You like the traditional look of a wood fireplace.
- You’re on a tight budget or schedule.
When to Consider Full Replacement:
- Your current fireplace is damaged or deteriorating.
- No gas line is installed or you’re already planning renovations.
- You’re redesigning your living space.
- Safety is a concern with your existing fireplace.
Count on Your Local Fireplace ExpertÂ
Converting your wood burning fireplace to gas is a smart way to improve home comfort, safety, and efficiency. For many Houston homeowners, gas log sets provide the ideal balance of convenience and cost. You can enjoy the instant flames, lower maintenance, cleaner air, and reliable warmth at the flip of a switch.
Our team at Perfection Supply has the products and expertise needed to help you decide which gas fireplaces or gas log options make the most sense for your home. We’ve worked with homeowners, builders, and contractors across the Houston area since 1979. We’re here to help you too. Contact us today to learn more about our gas fireplace options for your Houston area home.
ReferencesÂ
Dallas News. (2025, January 24). Add some winter warmth to your home with a fireplace upgrade. Dallas News. https://www.dallasnews.com/abode/2025/01/24/add-some-winter-warmth-to-your-home-with-a-fireplace-upgrade/Â
Houston Chronicle. (n.d.). The 6 hottest trends in outdoor fireplaces. Houston Chronicle. https://www.houstonchronicle.com/entertainment/article/The-6-hottest-trends-in-outdoor-fireplaces-15650618.phpÂ
Houston Permitting Center. (2023). Update: Vented fireplaces will require permits. Houston Permitting Center. https://www.houstonpermittingcenter.org/news-events/update-vented-fireplaces-will-require-permitsÂ
Texas Department of Housing and Community Affairs. (n.d.). Wood stoves indoor air quality. https://www.tdhca.texas.gov/sites/default/files/community-affairs/wap/docs/WoodStovesIndoorAQ.pdfÂ
U.S. Department of Energy. (n.d.). Wood and pellet heating. Energy.gov. https://www.energy.gov/energysaver/wood-and-pellet-heatingÂ
U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. (n.d.). Energy efficiency and your wood burning appliance. EPA.gov. https://www.epa.gov/burnwise/energy-efficiency-and-your-wood-burning-applianceÂ
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